Many people come to Gulf Shores, Alabama, for its stunning beaches and delicious seafood, but many others come to tee off. In addition to offering some of the best beaches in the nation, this vacation destination boasts golf courses that will have any golfer itching to hit the links.

Three golf courses to check out in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores vacation packages are the perfect option for families looking for a warm escape with plenty to do. Although the white-sand beaches are enough to occupy many visitors for the duration of their trip, those who are looking for some fun off the beach have plenty of options, too.

In particular, Gulf Shores golf courses are renowned as some of the best in the nation. Be sure to pack your clubs when you're getting ready to head south to your Gulf Shores rentals on the beach - you'll likely be doing more than sunbathing when you discover all the legendary courses nearby, designed by golf greats like Arnold Palmer, Bruce Devlin, Jerry Pate, Earl Stone and Robert Von Hagge. Avid golfers will want to book their golf vacation packages early so they can wake up and start playing right away. Either way, below are three courses you will enjoy checking out during your stay.

1. Cypress Bend at Craft Farms

Designed by Arnold Palmer himself, this 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course has a full-service golf shop and clubhouse. It was also given four and a half stars by Golf Digest, making it one of the best golf courses in Gulf Shores.

2. Gulf State Park Golf Course

The 18-hole championship Refuge Golf Club is part of Gulf State Park, and offers 6,563 yards of golf. Designed by Earl Stone and opened in 1974, this course's rating is 72.5 and its slope rating is 125. Open every day, you are encouraged to stop by the pro shop and snack bar before or after your game.

3. Kiva Dunes Golf Club

This number-one rated golf course in Alabama offers an unforgettable golf experience to visitors. The course was designed with help from U.S. Open Champion Jerry Pate. From the gold tees, it measures 7,092 yards and from the blue, it's 6,464. From the white, it's 5,849 and from red, it measures just over 5,000.

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Whenever you put two great things together, the result is even more spectacular than you could imagine. At Kiva Dunes, combine a perfect day of hitting the links with a gourmet meal at the Grill and head back to your Fort Morgan vacation rental with a full belly and eagerness to return for more.

The Gulf Shores area is home to several world-class golf courses that attract players from all over the world. Offering visitors an ideal blend of tranquility, beautiful scenery and a variety of greens, Gulf Shores golf courses are the perfect place to work on your handicap or while away a lazy afternoon.

Few things are as relaxing as spending hours on a golf course. Travelers who visit Gulf Shores are in luck, as the Kiva Dunes Golf Club has been named one of the best courses in all of Alabama, and this spot can act as the perfect setting for visitors who want to work on their golf game.

Looking to spend a little time on the green while you vacation at Fort Morgan rentals? This area is known for its historical value and stunning natural beauty, but its golf courses are also top notch. Head to the Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club for a superior golfing experience.

Orange Beach Golf Center is the perfect place for fans of golf to visit during their trip to the Gulf Coast. Whether you want to work on your game, improve your swing or simply relax with friends, a trip to this course could be just what you need to enhance a beach vacation.

Perdido Key vacation rentals are surrounded by gorgeous beaches and state parks, and there are two golf courses nearby to meet the needs of anyone looking for a tee time during their vacation. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, there's plenty to love about these links.

The rolling fairways of Craft Farms golf courses are just a short drive away from Gulf Shores beach house rentals, which is why golf enthusiasts will want to pack their clubs and polo shirts for a day out on two Arnold Palmer-designed courses, Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend.

The fall season might be the best time of year for you to hit the links along Alabama and Florida's Gulf Coast, not only because the courses typically have fewer players, but also because the cool and refreshing air provides the perfect temperature for a day on the fairway.

The weather outside might be frightful in much of North America, but not for guests at Gulf Shores area beach house rentals. The temperature along Alabama and Florida's Gulf Coast stays pleasantly warm throughout the year, and the sun shines practically every day. This year, skip the snow and head to the beach!